Several groups have been exempted from the “work duty” requirement for receiving welfare benefits in Denmark, following criticism and concerns about discrimination. This means they can fulfill welfare requirements through “community service” instead.

The exemptions include adopted children, children of surrogate mothers, children of posted diplomats, and children born during short stays abroad, such as vacations. The decision was influenced by concerns that the original requirements, primarily aimed at non-Western immigrants, unfairly affected these groups.

Minister for Employment Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen stated that the concerns expressed by adopted children significantly impacted the decision-making process. Some felt the requirement would brand them as second-class citizens.

The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring the new regulations align with the European Convention on Human Rights, preventing discrimination based on citizenship. While some organizations, like Danes Worldwide, have raised concerns about the impact on Danes working abroad for extended periods, no further exceptions will be made.

These exceptions have been agreed upon by the government parties, the Denmark Democrats, Liberal Alliance, the Conservative People’s Party, and the Danish People’s Party. The new provisions are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, coinciding with the implementation of the new welfare benefit system.